Helena College University of Montana a comprehensive two-year college, provides access to and support of high quality lifelong educational opportunities for our diverse community. Helena College is seeking qualified applicants who wish to become part of a dynamic and creative team for a full-time position as a Cosmetology Instructor.
Helena College is seeking a full-time, tenure track, Cosmetology instructors to teach in the newly established Cosmetology Program.
We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse campus community that fosters creativity, innovation, and student success. Faculty are professional educators with the primary responsibility of providing quality educational experiences and support for all students.
The Cosmetology program at Helena College is a 4-semester program with courses offered Monday - Saturday. The program provides to students the opportunity to earn an Associate of Applied Science Degree; preparing them to apply for their Cosmetologist license through the Montana State Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists and learn the business skills needed to be successful.
Examples of Duties and Responsibilities
Cosmetology instructors instruct, lead, mentor, and motivate students to achieve success, preparing them for their licensure exam and future career in the field. Instructors teach both in the classroom and in the salon, which is open to the Helena community. The instructors collaborate with each other and with the Director to ensure the program is meeting the requirements set forth by the Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists while providing the highest quality education for the students. This is an excellent opportunity to help teach and guide the next generation of cosmetologists in Helena.
Instructors at Helena College are contracted to teach two of the three semesters each academic year (fall, spring, and summer), with one semester off-contract each year. Instructors may be offered the opportunity to contract separately for the off semester.
Minimum Qualifications
Active Cosmetology License and Active Instructor License or the ability to obtain an active instructor's license through the Montana State Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists before January 4th 2027..
Applicants that do not already have an instructor license need to meet all license requirements set by the Montana State Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists.
At least 3 years of experience in cosmetology.
A thorough understanding of the cosmetology industry and hair, nail, and skin care services.
An interest in teaching cosmetology students at Helena College.
Experience working in and/or managing a salon, both services and retail.
Employees must be eligible to work lawfully in the United States. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
Additional Information
Work Schedule: Cosmetology program is Monday through Saturday, and runs all three semesters. Full-time instructors will be on contract for two of the three semesters. Weekly, no one is expected to work more than five days; however, those days may vary Monday through Saturday.
Benefits: Includes a comprehensive group insurance benefits program including medical plan options with prescription drug and dental plan, vision exam coverage, an employee assistance program (EAP), retirement plan, life and disability insurance options, flexible spending and dependent care account options, and optional long-term care insurance. Additional information on benefits can be found by visiting: https://choices.mus.edu/employees.asp
Union Affiliation: Helena Teachers Union
Priority Application Date: Friday, December 11, 2026 by 11:59 PM (Mountain Time)
Screening of applications will begin after the closing date; however, applications may continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
Complete applications must include:
Letter of Interest -- addressing your qualifications and experience related to the stated required skills for the position. A general letter salutation such as "Dear Search Committee" or "Dear Hiring Manager" is acceptable
Detailed Resume listing education and describing work experience
Active Montana State Cosmetology License OR an Active cosmetology License from another state and the ability to apply for license recognition/transfer in/to Montana.
Three (3) professional references - names and contact information for three (3) professional references.
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible to work lawfully in the United States. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
The Affiliation of the University of Montana (UM Affiliation) is an equal opportunity employer. UM Affiliation does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of protected class status as described in UM's non-discrimination policy and any applicable law. Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request. Qualified candidates may request veterans' or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.
Background check is required prior to the offer of employment. In accordance with university regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to background investigations per UM's policy and procedure.
References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. UM partners with SkillSurvey for reference checking. Applicants may receive emails from SkillSurvey to submit reference information.
Testing: Individual hiring departments within the UM Affiliation may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.
Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM and all affiliated campuses, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9). The University of Montana will require proof of authorization to work in the United States before final hiring. Due to the September 19, 2025 Presidential Proclamation and related guidance from USCIS and the Department of State, the University may be limited in its ability to offer H-1B sponsorship. At this time, we are unable to sponsor new H-1B visas that require payment of the additional fee introduced by the Proclamation.
